"I never thought, starting off in gymnastics, I would be in this position. It's quite amazing. It's been a tremendous year for me."

And Louis wasn't the only 'Strictly' star with an appointment with the Queen yesterday. Former judge Arlene Phillips was also at the Palace to collect a CBE - something she described as 'a real treasure'.

By strict appointment: Louis and Arlene at Buckingham Palace

"I feel like weeping," she said. "As I stood before the Queen an incredible emotion came over me. From where I came from, I never expected to be here receiving the CBE.

"It's incredible I've been able to do so much in terms of theatre and TV and music videos. I feel I've been so lucky to experience that.'"